Who We Are in Christ

Chosen, Free, and Made for His Glory

Pastor Lydia kicked off our series on Ephesians by reminding us of our identity in Christ. We are chosen, free, and made for His glory. This foundational truth sets the stage for understanding our purpose and the grace that God extends to us.

Laying Down Our Idols

Pastor Troy challenged us to lay down our idols and come home to the Father. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God over worldly distractions.

Chasing the World or Coming Home

Pastor Chantelle posed a critical question: Are we going to chase after this world, or are we going to come home to the Father? This question encourages us to evaluate our priorities and align them with God's will.

Standing in God's Strength

Pastor Jenny reminded us that we are more than capable because of the God we serve. She encouraged us to stand firm in our faith and act like we know our worth in Christ.

Back to the Basics: Ephesians Chapter 2

The Journey of Faith

Pastor Rodney shared his personal journey, which included career setbacks and a deeper calling to pastoral ministry. His story serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and the importance of trusting Him through life's ups and downs.

Understanding Ephesus

Ephesus was a bustling, wealthy city, much like modern-day Atlanta or Miami. It was a center of trade and paganism, making Paul's letter to the Ephesians all the more significant. This letter wasn't just for one church but for a community of new believers, much like our own church community.

Three Foundational Truths from Ephesians Chapter 2

1. Accept the Gift of Grace: Ephesians 2:1-8 emphasizes that we are saved by grace through faith. This grace is a freely given, unmerited, and unearned favor from God. Understanding and accepting this gift is crucial for our spiritual growth.
2. Accept the Assignment: Ephesians 2:10 reveals that we are God's handiwork, created to do good works that He prepared in advance for us. Recognizing our purpose and following God's plan is essential for fulfilling our divine assignment.
3. Accept the Person of Jesus Christ: Ephesians 2:13-16 and other scriptures like John 3:16 and Romans 5:8 highlight the importance of accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross and His resurrection make it possible for us to have eternal life and a direct relationship with God.

Life Application

Embrace God's Grace

Reflect on the gift of grace that God has freely given you. Are you fully accepting this gift, or do you struggle with feelings of unworthiness? Remember, grace is unearned and unmerited.

Fulfill Your Divine Assignment

Consider the good works that God has prepared for you. Are you actively seeking to fulfill your divine assignment? Your first ministry is always your household, but God may also be calling you to serve in other areas.

Deepen Your Relationship with Jesus

Evaluate your relationship with Jesus Christ. Have you fully accepted Him as your Lord and Savior? Spend time in prayer and scripture to deepen this relationship.

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